The Toronto City Council has stripped Mayor Rob Ford of most of his powers, as the embattled city leader refuses to step down following admissions of smoking crack and binge drinking.

Ford, who has admitted to smoking crack cocaine, buying illegal drugs and driving after consuming alcohol, has issued a string of emotional apologies, but has refused to resign.

The council does not have the authority to remove him from office unless he is convicted of a crime. Ford retains his title and ability to represent Toronto at official functions.

The 44-year-old Ford, who has promised to fight the council's decision, called the vote a "coup d'etat." He contends that council members acted because they opposed his agenda to save taxpayers' money.

But most council members say it is about the mayor's conduct and that he has become an embarrassment to North America's fourth most populous city.